Putting Yourself First in 2014

If reading that title just gave you an icky feeling, this post is for you. So much of our lives is spent doing for others. Whether you are working yourself to death to please your boss or trying to make sure each child is bathed, fed, and clothed, it's common for us to put our own needs at the bottom of our list (if they even make the list). I'm here to remind you that taking care of yourself isn't a bad thing or selfish. It's a must! Now, I'm not suggesting we all bail on our responsibilities in favor of self-indulgence. If the baby needs to be fed, you gotta do it. Rather, I'm just asking that you do a few simple things each day to take care of yourself. After all, when your needs are taken care of, it allows you to be that much better at giving to those around you. This year, make it a habit to nurture yourself. Here are a few ideas to get you (and me) started.

• Go for a walk
• Get a massage
• Paint your nails
• Make time for prayer or meditation
• Plan healthy meals for the week
• Find a good book and actually READ it
• Take your favorite class at the gym
• Ask for help when you need it
• Learn a new skill
• Take a hot bath
• Make time for sleep
• Listen to your favorite music
• Stretch for a few minutes after you wake up (taking a tip from the kitties here)
• Talk to a friend
• Take a nap

Do you struggle with putting yourself first? Do you have any ideas to add to the list? Share in the comments below!